A3.2 PCI DSS scope is documented and validated.
This requirement focuses on ensuring that PCI DSS scope is properly documented and validated. It ensures that organizations have processes to accurately identify and maintain their PCI DSS scope, including regular reviews and validation of scope boundaries.
Sub-requirements
- A3.2.1 : PCI DSS scope is documented and confirmed for accuracy at least once every three months and upon significant changes to the in-scope environment.
- A3.2.2 : PCI DSS scope impact for all changes to systems or networks is determined, including additions of new systems and new network connections.
- A3.2.2.1 : Upon completion of a change, all relevant PCI DSS requirements are confirmed to be implemented on all new or changed systems and networks, and documentation is updated as applicable.
- A3.2.3 : Changes to organizational structure result in a formal (documented) review of the impact to PCI DSS scope and applicability of controls.
- A3.2.4 : If segmentation is used, PCI DSS scope is confirmed.
- A3.2.5 : A data-discovery methodology is implemented.
- A3.2.5.1 : Data discovery methods are confirmed.
- A3.2.5.2 : Response procedures are implemented to be initiated upon the detection of cleartext PAN outside the CDE.
- A3.2.6 : Mechanisms are implemented for detecting and preventing cleartext PAN from leaving the CDE.
- A3.2.6.1 : Response procedures are implemented to be initiated upon the detection of attempts to remove cleartext PAN from the CDE.
A3.2. PCI DSS Scope Documentation and Validation
Continuously identify and validate all system components within the cardholder data environment (CDE) to maintain accurate PCI DSS scope.
Control Types
Key Risks
Frequently Asked Questions
How often must scope validation occur for DESV entities?
**Quarterly** automated discovery scans + **annual** comprehensive validation. Use tools like AWS Config and Azure Purview with PCI-specific rulesets.
What evidence validates network segmentation effectiveness?
Required: 1) Semi-annual penetration test reports, 2) Flow diagram showing CDE boundaries, 3) IDS/IPS logs demonstrating blocked crossover attempts. Cloud environments require security group analysis.
How are ephemeral cloud resources tracked in scope?
Implement: 1) AWS CloudTrail + Lambda for auto-tagging, 2) Azure Policy enforcement for PCI scope, 3) ServiceNow CMDB integration. Maintain 90-day historical records of all provisioned resources.
What documentation demonstrates third-party scope management?
Maintain: 1) CSA STAR reports for critical vendors, 2) API traffic maps showing data flows, 3) Quarterly access reviews of MSP portals. Use tools like BitSight for continuous monitoring.
How is scope reduction validated under A3.2?
Through: 1) Semi-annual segmentation checks using nmap, 2) Tokenization audits verifying PAN absence, 3) Data flow analysis with tools like WireShark. Document all scope changes in risk register.
Common QSA Questions
Show automated discovery scan results from last quarter?
Qualys scan reports (03/2025) identify 2,345 in-scope assets. Remediation: 1) 5 rogue EC2 instances contained, 2) 12 legacy systems segmented. Evidence includes AWS Config rules and ServiceNow tickets.
Demonstrate serverless function inclusion in CDE scope?
Lambda functions tagged 'PCI=TRUE' with: 1) VPC isolation, 2) X-Ray tracing enabled, 3) Code signing via AWS Signer. CloudFormation templates enforce PCI tagging at deployment.
Provide evidence of third-party scope validation?
We maintain: 1) Tokenization provider's SOC 2 Type II report, 2) Payment gateway's ASV scan compliance, 3) Quarterly vendor questionnaires. Last pen test simulated MSP compromise scenario.
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